I fear the “other:” The fight for social resilience through race,
politics and gender identities during the COVID-19 pandemic
Abstract
This study explores the development and testing of a social resilience
psychometric scale, through physical and social unrest during the
COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative interviews (N = 40) were aggregated to
define social resilience measured statements. When tested in
quantitative analysis respondents (N = 901) “see myself as a monster”
when evaluating others and are “scared to let people know the real me”
fearing loss of relationships. Anxiety is heightened through a
perception through the measure “could have done better.” When testing
for “want to be liked even when disagree on issues” Black respondents
are significantly different than White, Asian and those expressing other
races. Liberals and moderate conservatives are significantly different
in perception of social resilience, as are those exemplifying feminine
versus masculine traits. Logistic regression testing for “comfortable
with who I am in society” indicates narcissism (65% more likely) and
negative social resilience (56% more likely) are key adapters. Human
wellbeing, the act of perceiving self as a healthy or unhealthy actor in
society, has been influenced through groupthink and polarization of the
“other.” This study suggests the construct of self-esteem has been
pushed into reactive mode. Research that explicates the psychological
dimensions of modern resilience, is warranted.